In the 2011 report on Disability, the World Health Organization rated hearing loss as the most prevalent disability in the world. More than 30% of adults have disabling hearing loss complicating the management of their comorbid diseases. Isolation, mental illness and lack of family support are just some of the negative impacts of this invisible disability. In the next 25 years the number of hearing impaired individuals over the age of 65 in Canada will double, while at the same time there is a projected 50% shortfall in audiological service providers. The resultant service deficit is compounded by the lack of equipment and familiarity with hearing healthcare at the primary care level, causing increased inefficiency, unnecessary referrals, and unmet needs.